Word Origin & History

embarrass 1670s, "perplex, throw into doubt," from Fr. embarrasser, lit. "to block," from embarras "obstacle," from It. imbarrazzo, from imbarrare "to bar," from in- "into, upon" + V.L. *barra "bar." Meaning "make (someone) feel awkward" first recorded 1828. Original sense preserved in embarras de richesse (1751), from French (1726), the condition of having more wealth than one knows what to do with. Related: Embarrassing.

Example Sentences for embarrass

However, he was not embarrassed; it took a great deal to embarrass him.

I would give it to you in the original, but it might embarrass you; it certainly would me.

I asked him for it; but the question appeared to embarrass him.

In the meantime, Rougon's triumph was beginning to embarrass him.

This pointed question seemed to embarrass Mr. Parker greatly.

Do not embarrass him now by attention; he is ashamed to refuse, and does not care to accept.

I could grow eloquent over my gifts, if it were not that my bashfulness might embarrass me.

I did not say anything for fear I should embarrass her, but I felt grieved to the heart.

But don't question me further, please, or you will embarrass me.

But I just couldn't help it, and I promise not to embarrass you again.